Forest school at Greenwoods Nursery

Forest Schools is an inspirational educational ethos that focuses on developing children’s learning and development  through regular outdoor woodland experiences. We have our own forest school site which contains

• A tool area

• Digging area

• Vegetable patch

• Log circle

At Greenwoods, children have access to a range of outdoor experiences with our experienced Forest school leaders, who will plan the activities that will scaffold the children’s learning through play. Empowering children to become confident, lifelong learners. We recognise the importance of play, exploration and critical thinking in order to achieve this. This enables children to build on their own experiences and realise their potential while exploring the natural world.

Sessions are held three times a week for six weeks for small groups of our Pine & Birch children. Each session is based on children’s interests and ‘sparks’ within the session. Children are able to follow their interests, ask questions and come up with their own solutions to challenges they encounter during exploration and various activities. At the start and end of the session our circle times encourages children to think, plan and talk about our woodland environment and natural experiences. Whilst the sessions follow a certain structure, they are highly led by observations of the children and their own interests, following a learner-centred approach. Play and choice are an integral part of Forest School sessions, as well as opportunities for supported risk-taking.

Keeping your children safe is always our top priority. Daily risk assessments are carried out by a qualified member of staff who will assess the environment, activities, weather and children’s stage of development to ensure that activities are suitable and that the challenge of the Forest School is balanced against the risks.

It is those awesome ‘magic moments’ that wow and captivate children, causing their eyes to shine and their tongues to stick out in deep concentration while leading to engagement with a new and wonderful experience 😍

It is amazing that we can still be mesmerised by something that is not on a screen. This wondrous experience of beauty can also elicit love, trust and a desire to protect and care for something. This is often associated with feelings of deep connection and pleasure. That is why here at Greenwoods Nursery we share our passion with the children to encourage a life long love of the outdoor environment 💚🌳